How To Explore The Under-The-Radar Island Of Anguilla
Dreaming of an escape to paradise? Look no further than the heavenly island of Anguilla, a lesser-known option to some of its Caribbean counterparts but just as rich in culture, culinary offerings, and phenomenal scenery. Find out how to plan the ultimate island vacation, according to a local tastemaker…
Immaculate sands, fresh sea air and warm Caribbean hospitality, Anguilla is the ultimate in laid-back island vacationing. Sitting on the pristine beach of Maundays Bay, Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel boasts a superlative panorama over the azure waters that surround the southern side of the island. Maximizing on its incredible setting, the resort’s every room, suite and villa looks out over the ocean – some also come with sea-view pools and jacuzzis – so that guests can make the most of the barefoot luxury that Anguilla epitomizes.
While most hours can be happily spent here soaking up the sunshine – pick your ideal spot between the private terraces, beach loungers and dreamy infinity pool – those looking to exercise their adventurous side can try snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. When it comes to drinking and dining, there is also ample choice: from the alfresco waterfront restaurants Cip’s by Cipriani, inspired by its Venetian sister hotel, and the romantic Pimms, which celebrates classic Caribbean cuisine and local produce, to beachside bar and barbecue The Cap Shack, and the new Uchu poolside restaurant, serving Peruvian-inspired dishes and creative cocktails.
Here, Carmel Gumbs, resident artist at Cap Juluca, shares his insider tips for a vacation to Anguilla
The place that I love most on Anguilla is…
“…Little Bay Beach. This is by far my favorite place to go to on Anguilla to swim, find inspiration for artwork, and hang out with friends. Little Bay is one of the smallest beaches on Anguilla and it can be accessed by boat or, if you’re a bit more adventurous – like me – you can take a short five-minute hike down the rocks to be welcomed by its sweet seclusion and serenity. The views at Little Bay are breathtaking. The unique rock formations and greenery provide a home for lots of different species of birds. Below the rocks, the crystal-clear water is a sight that makes you want to dive in – only stopped by the fact that you’re 70 feet above sea level. It is definitely a view to behold and one that never gets old, no matter how many times I look at it.”
One thing that everybody who visits Anguilla must do is…
“…book a day trip to Sandy Island. A small island made primarily of sand, just a 10-minute boat ride from Anguilla, it is a great spot for lunch and relaxation.”
“The views at Little Bay are breathtaking. The unique rock formations and greenery provide a home for lots of different species of birds
”Carmel Gumbs
For cultural experiences on Anguilla…
“If you’re an art lover, you can take a visit to Maundays Gallery at Cap Juluca to view works exhibited by myself and other regional artists. If you want to enjoy our national sport, boat racing, visit during Easter, May, June and most definitely the [first week in] August. Anguillians race their boats, which are locally built and usually supported by villages. This event draws lots of visitors from neighboring islands and it’s a national treasure to the people of Anguilla.”
What to eat and drink…
“While here on Anguilla, I love to eat lobster with a side of brown rice, sweet potato fries, plantain and asparagus, [and] a nice glass of fruit punch to go with it.”
What makes Anguilla such a beloved vacation spot?
“I think there’s an enduring love for Anguilla as a vacation destination because of the peace and tranquillity that you experience while staying here, as well as the friendly locals that you may encounter. It’s very hard to find [that] anywhere else.”